The team, which represents the South Island, is on the road and will face the Hurricanes Poua in a preseason clash at Trentham
Otago Spirit players Charlotte Va’afusuaga, Maia Joseph, who looked comfortable in her first season in the black jersey last year, and Eilis Doyle have been selected in the 28-player squad.
Matatu will be looking to test their combinations early and go one better after they were agonisingly close in a 34-33 loss to the Poua in last season’s preseason game.
Black Ferns first five Hannah King will get her first hit-out in her new colours.
She shifted south to Matatu this season after playing for the Poua and will provide some stability driving the team around the park.
Manawatū Cyclones centre Hollyrae Mete, who was the in-form player in the Farah Palmer Cup last season, also gets her first chance in Super Rugby Aupiki and is one to watch.
Black Fern lock Chelsea Bremner also returns home to Matatu, linking up with sister Alana, after two seasons with Chiefs Manawa.
Kaipo Olsen-Baker, who reignited her career when she shifted to Matatu from the Poua last season, and Otago Spirit hooker Tegan Hollows have not been considered for the game due to injury.
They are expected to be ready for selection before their first game against Chiefs Manawa next weekend.
